You Can Take the Girl Out of Bradford …https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com
Bradford lass recently returned from living in Rome. Rediscovering Yorkshire, searching for a decent coffee.
Fri, 16 Nov 2018 20:33:59 +0000 en
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1 http://wordpress.com/https://s0.wp.com/i/buttonw-com.pngYou Can Take the Girl Out of Bradford …https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com
Congratulations Bradford Literature Festival – Tourism Event of the Year!https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/11/15/congratulations-bradford-literature-festival-tourism-event-of-the-year/
https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/11/15/congratulations-bradford-literature-festival-tourism-event-of-the-year/#respondThu, 15 Nov 2018 21:52:50 +0000http://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/?p=3208Many congratulations to the Bradford Literature Festival which has just won Tourism Event of the Year!

Brainchild of Director Syima Aslam and Irna Qureshi, and only in its fourth year, the Bradford Literature Festival 2018 saw record numbers of people attend over 500 events packed into venues across the city with talks, comedy, workshops, music and poetry, and children’s storytelling. The Festival has been described as the most diverse in the country with topics including superheroes, kama sutra, crime, history, religion, rap and magic. The huge tent dominated Bradford’s Centenary Square and outdoor events and films were featured in City Park and around the popular Mirror Pool. The Festival’s schools programme also held free events for children across the district aiming to ‘create a cultural and literary extravaganza celebrating the written and spoken word’.

The Festival has gone from being a two-day event in 2014 to this year’s ten-day celebration attracting over 70,000 people. In Bradford. Aren’t literature festivals the sort of thing that happen only in posh, middle class areas which only posh, middle class people are supposed to enjoy? If you’re tempted to think that a literature festival is not for you, with speakers from Jeanette Winterson, Akala, Frank Bruno, Susie Quattro, Ben Okri and Dennis Skinner, the 2018 programme had a bit of something for everyone. The aim of the Festival has always been to attract people who wouldn’t necessarily think about attending a literature festival. This mission to include is demonstrated by the Festival’s varied programme and ethical pricing policy, with over half of all tickets this year either free or discounted.

Panellists from left to right Kate Fox, Durre Shahwar and Sam Mills. Chaired by Peg Alexander

Almost by accident, the events I attended had a working class theme. The first included three contributors to Know Your Place, a collection of essays written by working class writers on everything from food, seaside trips, housing, benefits, work and feeling out of place. The three panellists discussed accent, confidence, aspiration and moving away from your roots. This was an event that really deserved to be more well attended. Buy the book. I’m doing my bit my getting all the Italians I know to learn the proper pronunciation of bath, bus and funny.

Quote of the event: hearing a northern voice ‘might make some people moan or develop irritable vowel syndrome’ from Kate Fox’s poem Northern Voices

Akala in conversation with Bidisha

I first came across rapper, poet and author Akala on Frankie Boyle’s New World Order (see from 7 minutes) and I don’t think I’ve seen anyone talk more sense in a long time. His book Natives, Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire is a must read for anyone interested in the state of the country, its history and education. It is balanced, angry, backed up meticulous research and extremely readable. There was a huge audience to see his talk and it was a real celebration of ideas and understanding your subject.

Quote of the event: Nationalism isn’t in the national interest

Jeanette Winterson and her favourite books

I’ve never seen author Jeanette Winterson speak before, she was relaxed, entertaining and enthusiastic in a northern and therefore acceptable way. Discussing her reading life from Accrington library to Cambridge University and the books that inspired her from the Bible, the Moomins, Shakespeare and the Brontes, this was a treat. I even missed the first half of the England v Panama World Cup game to make the event. It was worth it.

Quote of the event: Sometimes stories need to confront what needs changing.

The Bradford Literature Festival has worked hard over the past four years to arrange events outside of the ordinary, outside of what a literature festival is supposed to be, to promote authors like you, like us. And what better place could there be for that than Bradford? A competition for school students to appear in next year’s Festival has just been announced, encouraging more involvement and developing the city’s skills and interest. This award is so well deserved. I’m looking forward to next year’s festival already.

]]>https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/11/15/congratulations-bradford-literature-festival-tourism-event-of-the-year/feed/036002441_2125021557513549_631131339474599936_ncatherinesimeskateAkala.jpgJeannetteChoose Bradford this November.https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/11/03/choose-bradford-this-november/
https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/11/03/choose-bradford-this-november/#respondSat, 03 Nov 2018 18:15:16 +0000http://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/?p=3295My friends took their children to the cinema last week. They decided to go to the Showcase in Leeds. I was incensed. Why not go to the new Light cinema in Bradford? The exact same film was showing, the exact same time. Closer to home, less driving and five hours free parking in the Broadway centre. I’ve heard nothing but good things about the cinema, it’s surrounded by places to eat – Zizzi’s for pizza, 5 Guys for burgers, Esquires Coffee and the food court in Broadway open until 8pm most days. But to Leeds they went.

We’ve got used to deferring to Leeds, but that needs to change. The next time you’re thinking of going to the cinema, choose Bradford.

Below is my round up of events in Bradford this November. All the organisations on the list below are making an effort to raise Bradford’s profile, promote the city and get you out of the house. What are you doing? Bradford needs you. Spread the word. Use it of lose it.

Visit Bradford has a list of the best bonfires in and around Bradford. The Bolton Abbey event on Saturday 3rd November by the river and priory sounds lovely.

Real Food Ilkley Ilkley Farmers Market on Sunday 4th November 10am-3pm. I’m going to tour all of Bradford’s farmers markets over the next few months. I’m hoping the Italian n’duja stall is still there.

Waterstones book shop holds its monthly book quiz on Monday 5th November in the Wool Exchange 6pm-7pm and then its book group on Tuesday 13th November 5pm-6pm. Ask at Café W for more details.

Bread + Roses cafe begin their weekly drawing club on 7th November at 6.30pm with artist Ben Cummings. All abilities welcome.

Saltaire Makers Fair on the evening of Friday 9th and all day Saturday 10th November at Victoria Hall. Local crafts on sale including jewellery, ceramics, toys, clothes, furniture and prints. Might be good for an early and unique Christmas present.

Free tour of the Sunbridge Wells complex on Saturday 10th November at 12pm-1pm on the history and development of the site.

Remembrance Services are taking place across the district to commemorate those who lost their lives and the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War on Sunday 11th November. The main parade in the city centre, followed by a civic service starts at 10.20am outside City Hall.

Experience a night in the museum with Lates: Magic and Mystery, an adults only night of experiments, comedy, live shows, beer and music at the Science and Media Museum on 15th November. This is a free event, but needs to be booked through the museum website.

The Science and Media Museum is also running an exhibition The Peace to End All Wars until 26th November exploring the ways in which the First World War has been commemorated in Bradford over the last 100 years.

The WOW Women of the World festival returns for its third year over the weekend of the 17/18th November at the Kala Sangam arts centre with talks, workshops, dance and music celebrating women and girls achievements. Bradford is one of 30 cities across the globe taking part in the festival. I’m particularly looking forward to the Badass Women of Bradford talk and the squeaky cheese cooking class.

The Illuminate Bradford festival begins on 30th November – 2 December with interactive installations, street theatre and a stunning 3D light show projected onto City Hall.

And don’t forget Bradford’s #DooraDay photography competition this month celebrating Bradford’s most beautiful and unusual doorways and architecture. There’s a prize for the best effort.

]]>https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/11/03/choose-bradford-this-november/feed/0poppycatherinesimesBradford needs youHalf term and Halloween. Ghostly goings on in Bradfordhttps://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/10/19/half-term-and-halloween-ghostly-goings-on-in-bradford/
https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/10/19/half-term-and-halloween-ghostly-goings-on-in-bradford/#respondFri, 19 Oct 2018 17:31:02 +0000http://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/?p=3286As a former primary school teacher, there is nothing more welcome than October half term. If you’re a parent you may find it less thrilling.

With that in mind, here are some of the best events over half term to keep the kids occupied and for the kids at heart a few ghostly goings on in and around Bradford to celebrate Halloween.

Half term

Take a look at Visit Bradford’s website for child friendly activities and events, including mask making, the big draw festival, theatre and days out.

The Dengineers take over the Science and Media Museum with a series of free workshops and activities based on CBBC ’s DIY programme from 20th October-4th November.

Out in the Aire in Shipley organise some lovely forest school and outdoor activities getting little people back to nature and out in the fresh air. The first session is free.

Waterstones Bookshop at the Wool Exchange will be holding spooky activities and a drawing competition every day during the half term.

Lister Lanterns Parade 26th October from 6.30-7.30pm Cartwright Hall, Lister Park with lanterns, fire jugglers and musicians. Make your own lanterns the day before from 11am-3pm.

Building Peace workshops at the Peace Museum 24-27th October with tours of the museum, placard making, dressing up and under 5s colouring.

Halloween

Ghosts in the Machines. Free family craft activities at the Bradford Industrial Museum on 24 October. Ring on the day to confirm times.

All Hallows’ Eve at Bolling Hall from 5.30pm-10pm 31st October. Visit the museum after dark with funfair, food and fancy dress. Entry £1.

Pumpkin trail at Bolton Abbey 20th October-4th November. Follow the trail of pumpkins through the Strid Wood to uncover the witch’s magical spell. £10 per vehicle.

Dress up and join Haworth’s Halloween Parades on 27-28th October at 2pm along the main street. On Saturday follow the dragon, and Sunday is the Parade of Ghouls.

Jump aboard the Keighley and Worth Valley Halloween train on Sunday 28th October with ghost stories, trick or treating and face painting along the way. 11am-4.55pm.

Spooky Stories will take place in the 400 year old barn at East Riddlesden Hall every day over half term at 1.30pm. A children’s Halloween Party is also planned on Sunday 28th.

Ghosts of City Hall. This nocturnal tour inside Bradford’s former police station, cells and court is sadly fully booked on Halloween. But keep your eyes open for more tours with the Bradford Civic Society over the coming months.

A Night to Dismember at Sunbridge Wells 27 October. Free drink to those wearing fancy dress and disco classics.

The nights are drawing in, fires are being lit, leaves are falling from the trees; it’s a great time to get out and about and make the most of Bradford’s beautiful countryside in all its autumn glory. With lantern festivals, cinema, beer, mushrooms and more here are some of the best things going on in the district this month.

The Bradford Print Fair 6 October from 11am-5pm at the Assembly Bradford and Bread + Roses on North Parade featuring talks, workshops, films and food.

Haworth Sausage and Cider festival 5-7 October at the School Rooms. What could be nicer? No more information required.

Heritage Walks 7 October. Take a walk, or two, with local historian Nigel Grizzard. Be a tourist in your own city with two walks exploring Bradford’s Jewish past in Manningham and Little Germany. Contact Nigel to book.

Widescreen Weekend cinema festival 11-14 October at the Media Museum. Four days of iconic films, kicking off on opening night with the great Sergio Leone’s wild west classic Once Upon a Time in the West.

Mushroom Hunt 13 October in Judy Woods, meet at the Station Road entrance at 1.30pm.

Keighley and Worth Valley Railway Beer and Music Festival 18-21 October. The railway is transformed into a five mile pub crawl with bars at Oxenhope, Ingrow and Keighley and on the steam trains themselves.

Photobook Fair at the Impressions Gallery with talks, book launches, signings, workshops and stalls.

Halloween night-time ghost tour of Bradford City Hall’s original court and cells on 31 October from 6.30pm. Tickets on sale here.

Don’t forget to watch out for Visit Bradford‘s Instagram round up of all the best photographs from Bradford at the end of the month.

]]>https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/10/05/october-in-bradford-mushrooms-ghost-tours-and-lanterns/feed/014563552_1235916419763492_7258588769499812534_ncatherinesimes163116_10150344525820584_2126835_n41959011_246786982690682_3431137304192745472_nAutumn is coming. September events in Bradford to Celebratehttps://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/09/04/autumn-is-here-september-events/
https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/09/04/autumn-is-here-september-events/#commentsTue, 04 Sep 2018 21:51:49 +0000http://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/?p=3235September is my favourite month. Not only is it my birthday (8th), autumn is finally on the way and Strictly starts next week. Cosy nights, fires and better clothes. I am hygge.

But there’s too much going on in Bradford this month to stay indoors just yet. There are lots of people working really hard to improve the city’s image, raise its profile and provide plenty of good reasons to be proud of our city. So let’s do what we can to spread the word, get involved and discover another side to Bradford. Move away from the computer and embrace the real world. Just make sure you put a scarf on first.

Here are some of the things I’m looking forward to this month:

Bubble Up Festival7-9 September A water weekend celebrating Bradford’s founding beck and the city’s creative spirit with arts workshops, music, mass dance, sand sculptures and a giant water slide down Darley Street. It starts on Friday evening with a party at the Media Museum. Free tickets are needed for some events.

Heritage Open days 8-16 September Some of the city’s most historic buildings will be open to visitors over the next two weeks in this annual event. Visit Bradford Cathedral – the oldest building in the centre and take a bell tower tour.

Saltaire Festival7-16 September including a beer festival at Saltaire Brewery, open house and gardens, tour of the model farm, classic cars, activities for kids and a continental market on the 14-16.

Check out Visit Bradford‘s website and sign up for Bradford Council’s regular emails for what’s on in the city.

If you know of any other events this month please share in the comments below. Happy Autumn!

]]>https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/09/04/autumn-is-here-september-events/feed/6DkgVufdX0AASxs4catherinesimesDkgVufdX0AASxs4CaptureGood news from Bradford. Really. There is. You just need to know where to look.https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/07/30/good-news-from-bradford-really-there-is-you-just-need-to-know-where-to-look/
https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/07/30/good-news-from-bradford-really-there-is-you-just-need-to-know-where-to-look/#commentsMon, 30 Jul 2018 21:37:30 +0000http://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/?p=3213Bradford has just been voted as emerging destination of the year by the Luxury Travel Guide, recognising our UNESCO City of Film status, Saltaire, Haworth and the Worth Valley Railway as special places to visit. Bradford’s stunning Wool Exchange has been named one of the 15 most beautiful bookshops in the world. And last month saw the city centre host three major events: the Bradford, Science and Literature Festivals attracting big crowds and showing the city at its best.

This is very good news and we should all be celebrating, well done to the organisers who made it happen.

Bradford Literature Festival 2018

Yes, I know there was no football shown in Centenary Square for the World Cup, yes Bradford has serious economic problems which desperately need to be resolved and the Council is coping with long years of government cuts, and yes some events could be better publicised. But despite the problems, we need to start being a bit more positive, or constructive at the very least. If you remember people were very critical of the mirror pool when it was first proposed and has since been proved a huge success.

The Bradford Literature Festival, for example, is establishing itself as a major cultural event in the north after only four years. If you think that a literature festival is not for you with contributors from Akala, Frank Bruno, Susie Quattro, Jeanette Winterson and lots of free events for kids, there was a bit of something for everyone. If you didn’t go to any of the talks, I will be writing up the best bits from the working class authors I saw when I find the words to express how great I thought they were.

The Bradford Festival and Science Festival brought music, robots, experiments, hands-on activities, food and drink if that is more to your taste.

There’s been lots of talk about wanting our country or culture ‘back’ but I’m not sure what that means or if the people who say it really know either. If they mean morris dancing, maypoles, brass bands, maybe a pie and pea festival then I’m happy to help anyone organise that. In the meantime, our Bradfordian propensity to moan is legendary. I am more than happy with a good moan and a grim up north attitude myself, but even I am being overwhelmed by the negativity. If we want to make our city great again, then let’s do something about it.

Get yourself out to some of the events going on in August (listed below). Meet some people. People are far nicer in real life than behind the anonymity of their phones. But we need to get out and about to remember this. If the city centre is half empty, then we need to put our money where our moaning mouths are: Oastler market has good butchers, spice stalls, green grocers and is super cheap, Tiffin coffee shop is a great addition to the city centre, Waterstones is acknowledged as one of the most beautiful shops in the world and North Parade has a range of independent bars fit for any hipster.

With this in mind, I’ve put together a list of some of the nicest events in and around Bradford over the summer holidays. Move away from the computer and let’s make the most of what our city has to offer.

What’s coming up in August:

Celebrate Yorkshire Day 1st August at Bolling Hall with Yorkshire Pudding tossing, Vikings and craft activities

And of course me! Follow You Can Take the Girl Out of Bradford on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for Bradford stories and events.

]]>https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/07/30/good-news-from-bradford-really-there-is-you-just-need-to-know-where-to-look/feed/2Df0jdjvWkAEDmzpcatherinesimes36002441_2125021557513549_631131339474599936_nNational Writing Day – everyone has a story to tell. What’s yours?https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/06/27/national-writing-day-everyone-has-a-story-to-tell-whats-yours/
https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/06/27/national-writing-day-everyone-has-a-story-to-tell-whats-yours/#respondWed, 27 Jun 2018 06:40:58 +0000http://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/?p=3182Today is National Writing Day to encourage anyone with a story, anyone with something to say to get it written down. Have a look at the website for local events and ideas to get you started. Take the seven minute challenge, write away and see what happens.

You might think writing isn’t for you. Why do I write? Why does anyone do anything? Why do you play, sing, create, do anything? I do it because I feel I should. I feel bad if I don’t. Then comes the crisis of confidence. Why would anyone want to read what I have to say? Nothing I write has any value. People won’t read it, but then again what if they do and they don’t like it or don’t agree? I try to tell myself that everyone else must suffer the same.

I loved writing as a child. I loved words and putting them together. As a teenager I read articles in newspapers that made me stop and think, that perfectly expressed what I believed, what was in my head but not yet fully formed. I wanted to be able to do that.

When I first started writing a blog in Rome, I didn’t want to write la bella vita about how wonderful it was to live in Italy (it was and I love those blogs, but people do them far better than me). I also wanted to avoid the moaning and complaining that comes with living in Rome. As a foreigner you neither want the rose-tinted glasses seeing only a perfect expat existence, or to be continually complaining about the reality of low wages, London-expensive rents, public transport that regularly sets on fire and the rats. I wanted to explore the similarities between my birthplace and my new home, hence You Can Take the Girl Out of Bradford. I wanted to find the connections and make the links. Now that I’m back living in Bradford that remains my aim. I don’t always succeed.

At the moment, I’m in a bit of a writing lull. Before I start writing again I need to read more George Orwell. The more I read of his writing the more I appreciate his ability to cut through the confusion. To say what needs to be said.

George Orwell, inspirational quotes for adults

We need more writers like us. I know some wonderful writers. I am jealous of their ability, productivity, for being brave enough to try and to keep going. Justine, who writes novels, short stories, enters competitions and is shortlisted. John who plays trumpet, paints and writes poetry in his native Brummie dialect. Rhiannon who writes novels, publishes topical grown-up children’s fiction and writes courageously about subjects closer to home.

And my Dad, who didn’t read a book until he was 21, but who wrote in his retirement and had a style all of his own. He self-published a travel journal of his trip around the world and had a website of his Walks and Thoughts. I read his journal years ago when he first published it. I remember it containing things about his relationship with my mother that I’d rather not have known, but he said you can’t write worrying about what other people will think. You have to write for you. Since he died, I haven’t been able to read anything that he wrote. But I know I will feel better once I do.

After a horrid 2017, I am trying to write again, struggling to find the words. I need to regain my enthusiasm, my rhythm. I want to rage against Trump, Salvini, the hostile environment, austerity, me too, Europe, fake news, about our general confusion with the state of the world. But at the moment that all seems too difficult. So I take comfort in the little things. I’ll put aside the difficult topics and have another coffee, enjoy the football and write about them because it’s easier. Maybe I lived in Italy for too long.

]]>https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/06/27/national-writing-day-everyone-has-a-story-to-tell-whats-yours/feed/03f86a8ec24347e5abfca1aefd637f1cdcatherinesimesWhere to watch the World Cup in Bradford (and surrounds)https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/06/17/where-to-watch-the-world-cup-in-bradford-and-surrounds/
https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/06/17/where-to-watch-the-world-cup-in-bradford-and-surrounds/#commentsSun, 17 Jun 2018 18:31:56 +0000http://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/?p=3155The last World Cup, I was living in Rome. Watching the Azzurri from bars on beautiful squares thronged with people, eating pizza and drinking beer. Pizza should always be drunk with beer and Italy should always be in the World Cup. I doubt the Italians are even acknowledging that it is happening this time round.

So at home in Bradford, what and where is going to recreate that World Cup fever? Up until last week, there were no communal outdoor events planned, but to the rescue come Bradford Bulls who will be showing every England match free on a mega screen at the Odsal stadium. Entry is free, but you need to pre-book tickets at: http://www.bradfordbulls.co.uk/worldcup Food and activities for kids are also available. Well done Bradford Bulls!

Below are some of my favourite places in Bradford to watch a match. From an independent brewery, trendy underground bar to a cosy country pub. Something for all tastes. Where will you be watching? Happy to add your recommendations

]]>https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/06/17/where-to-watch-the-world-cup-in-bradford-and-surrounds/feed/6566d9-campodeifioricatherinesimesSearching for the perfect coffee in West Yorkshirehttps://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/05/28/searching-for-the-perfect-coffee-in-bradford/
https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/05/28/searching-for-the-perfect-coffee-in-bradford/#commentsMon, 28 May 2018 12:12:39 +0000http://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/?p=3117From Rome with love

When I lived in Rome (god how many of my sentences start like this at the moment), a morning coffee was a daily ritual, a necessity, a want, a habit. A quick espresso stood at the bar, taking less than three minutes in total to order and consume, was a sweet little kiss to start the day that lingered on your tongue for the rest of your journey to work.

In Italy (sorry) at your local bar, the barista starts to make your coffee as soon as you enter the door. They remember every regular’s regular tipple be it cappuccino, caffè latte or a simple caffè. The downside is that you can never change your mind. It’s as set in stone as the ritual itself. As an example, I was back in Rome a few months ago and happened to be in my old neighbourhood, where I hadn’t lived for at least four years, and popped into my old bar. The same barista was still working there, he asked me why I hadn’t been in for a while and commented that I’d changed what I drank – from caffè to caffè machiatto.

Coffee culture has boomed in the UK in the years I lived in Italy. But it’s not the same. I have no problem with the huge, international chains serving up their buckets of milky froth, but I do have more of an issue with the so-called authentic bars which don’t really know what they are doing. I don’t want a thousand choices – flavours/sizes/syrups. Too many questions first thing in a morning. I imagine the coffee is as good quality as they say, the machines seem to be the same, but oh my goodness they do make a meal out of it. Coffee should not take this long – it doesn’t have to be slow coffee to be good. In and out in three minutes. Get the job done. It’s the pleasure of a fleeting little coffee that I miss.

But, I’ve been back in the UK for a year and I am desperately trying to recreate the Italian coffee bar atmosphere now that I’m living and working in West Yorkshire. Here are some local favourites and I sincerely thank you all for your efforts.

Tiffin Coffee

Tiffin Coffee in Bradford is a gem. It opened just a year ago in the old wool exchange building, one of the most beautiful buildings in the heart of Bradford city centre. This independent coffee shop has a range of fairtrade and organic coffee and uses local Yorkshire roasters. Tiffin is a cosy, friendly place to stop, relax, work, use the Wi-Fi. One to support. Use it or lose it Bradford.

La Bottega Milanese

This Leeds city centre coffee bar gets a mention as my daily coffee stop on the way to work. The one where I’m most trying to recreate my Roman commute – the Italian barista helps. They do fabulous Friday doughnuts too – did you know that Italians eat doughnuts for breakfast called una bomba? I’ve inaugurated a new Friday tradition at work. They also do aperitivo spritz in the evenings. La Bottega’s mantra for their produce is “If it’s not from Italy, it’s from Yorkshire“. I might have to steal it.

Emporio Italia

Luigi from Calabria and his wife Sam own this super friendly Italian restaurant in Ilkley. It’s not a coffee shop, but I wanted to mention them for their attention to the coffee rules. They will serve you a cappuccino after a hearty pasta lunch, but they might make fun of you for it. Try their lunchtime specials, I discovered them thanks to the Italian group that meets there twice a month. Their polpettine in brodo (meatballs in broth) are some of the best that I have tasted. And make the after lunch coffee an espresso please.

Emily’s The Bronte Birthplace

I recently discovered Emily’s coffee shop in the birthplace of the Bronte sisters in Thornton village, Bradford. The coffee shop is housed in the very room the sisters were born, right in front of the wonderful fireplace. Coffee is sourced from local Bradford roasters Casa Espresso and they do a good brunch too. I was very happy to see n’duja on the menu. It’s well worth a visit after a walk along the Bronte Way or through the village itself. See their website for details.

]]>https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2018/05/28/searching-for-the-perfect-coffee-in-bradford/feed/620180612_183305.jpgcatherinesimes33754299_10160473438350584_5993829858902278144_n33811122_10160473439360584_1606913802790502400_nIMG-20180612-WA0001.jpgGoodbye 2017, you won’t be missed, but even in the worst of years …https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2017/12/31/goodbye-2017-you-wont-be-missed/
https://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/2017/12/31/goodbye-2017-you-wont-be-missed/#commentsSun, 31 Dec 2017 16:14:43 +0000http://youcantakethegirloutofbradford.com/?p=3095Good riddance to 2017 and Happy New Year. Usually, I’d be eager to join in and write a list of ten things we won’t miss about 2017; however, my list of shit things that have happened this year would be short and incredibly painful. So instead, I thought I’d try to be positive and write the things I feel grateful for:

My family

Finding the right words when I needed to

My best friend for always understanding me, always taking me in the right way and always knowing when I’m joking